NAB League: Bendigo Pioneers beat Murray Bushrangers

Covid-19 restrictions meant NAB League clubs didn’t have access to their top age players but it didn’t stop one side from moving to the top of the ladder.

It was a hard fought contest before the Pioneers eventually came out on top. Photo: Stephen Hicks.

If the Bendigo Pioneers were to describe their win on Saturday in one word it would be opportunity.

Due to Victoria’s current Covid-19 restrictions, the Pioneers were forced to assemble a side which looked completely different to its last game as all top age talents could not play in the weekend’s NAB League match.

It meant five players were selected for their first game of the season against regional rivals the Murray Bushrangers.

Coach Danny O’Bree said he was pleased to see his side stand up at Victoria Park in Echuca.

“The lead-up to the game certainly wasn’t ideal by any stretch,” he said.

“We had told guys earlier in the week they weren’t going to be playing and by 4 on Friday afternoon we were telling them they were in.

“And then we had to check with some of the private schools whether boys would be eligible to play.

“Telling someone they’re getting an opportunity to play their first game is something I always enjoy.”

Leitchville-Gunbower’s Jed Brereton, who was one of the familiar faces, stood up when his team needed him most, producing a best on ground display.

“Jed has taken on a new role in defence and really excelled so far,” O’Bree said.

“He was really dependable for us on the weekend and even had to spend a little time in the ruck given the make-up of our side.”

First gamer Jacob Nihill was also impressive in the ruck for his side with 14 hit-outs and 13 disposals.

Hugh Hamilton, Rick Monti and Harvey Gallagher also won praise from O’Bree for lifting their side when the “game was there to be won”.

The 31-point win saw the Pioneers move to the top of the ladder with metropolitan sides still having a game in hand.

But O’Bree said the position wasn’t just about the win-loss record of his side.

“We’ve been really pleased with how kids have accepted the challenge of playing in different positions,” he said.

“Everyone is pushing to get the most out of themselves even if that means stepping out of their comfort zone.

“They can see our game style is working and that is giving us a lot of confidence.”

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